Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter’s LEDs | Linksys WMP55AG instruction

Instant Wireless® Series

Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter

The Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter’s LEDs

	Figure 3-1
LED Indicators
LINK	Green. The LINK LED lights up when there is a wireless
	network connection. It will flash when there is activity.
PWR	Green. The PWR LED lights up when the Adapter is pow-
	ered on.

Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter

Chapter 4: Installation and Configuration for Windows XP

Important for Windows 98, Me, and 2000 users: Go to “Chapter 5: Installation and Configuration for Windows 98, Me, and 2000.”

Overview

After installing the Dual-Band Wireless A+G PCI Adapter in your computer, you will install the driver and configure the Adapter.

Hardware Installation

1.Turn off your desktop PC.

2.Open your PC’s case, and locate an available PCI slot on the motherboard. Check with your computer’s manufacturer if you need instructions.

3.Slide the Adapter into the PCI slot, as shown in Figure 4-1. Make sure that all of its pins are touching the slot’s contacts. You may have to apply a bit of pressure to slide the Adapter all the way in.

4.After the Adapter is set firmly in place, secure its

fastening tab to your PC’s	Figure 4-1
chassis with a mounting
screw. Then close your PC’s case.

5.Rotate the antenna so that it is positioned straight up and perpendicular to the horizon. This will ensure optimum wireless operating range and per- formance.

6.Power on your desktop PC.

Proceed to the next section, “Driver Installation for Windows XP.”

WMP55AG specifications

The Linksys WMP55AG is a versatile network adapter designed to deliver robust wireless connectivity, catering to various user needs in the realm of home and office networking. Launched by Linksys, a revered name in the networking hardware domain, this adapter stands out for its combination of performance, compatibility, and user-friendly features.

One of the main features of the WMP55AG is its ability to operate across multiple wireless standards. It supports 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g protocols, making it a triple-mode solution that ensures compatibility with a wide array of wireless networks. This multi-standard support allows users to connect to virtually any Wi-Fi network, whether it is a legacy system or one utilizing more recent standards.

The WMP55AG is designed for PCI installation, meaning it can easily be integrated into desktop computers, providing a stable and powerful connection. With its internal antenna system, it ensures a strong signal and minimizes interference, which is crucial for maintaining seamless network performance, especially in environments with multiple competing signals.

In terms of speed, the WMP55AG can achieve data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps when operating in the 802.11g mode. This speed is sufficient for most internet browsing, streaming media, and online gaming needs. Moreover, when connected to an 802.11a network, users can benefit from higher throughput, ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications.

Security is another critical aspect of the WMP55AG. It supports the latest Wi-Fi security protocols, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2, ensuring that users have multiple options to protect their wireless networks from unauthorized access.

Its ease of use is complemented by Linksys’ user-friendly setup software, which simplifies the process of installation and configuration. This feature is particularly advantageous for less tech-savvy users who may find the setup of networking devices daunting.

Overall, the Linksys WMP55AG delivers a reliable, flexible, and secure wireless networking solution. Its compatibility with multiple wireless standards, solid performance speeds, built-in security features, and straightforward installation make it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their desktop wireless connectivity. Whether for home use or office environments, the WMP55AG continues to be a relevant option in the landscape of wireless networking devices.